Bronny James appreciated Luka Dončić’s hospitality as the Lakers used their trip to Slovenia to strengthen relationships before the season.
Bronny James received an up-close look at Luka Dončić’s influence during the Los Angeles Lakers’ offseason minicamp in Slovenia.
During an appearance on ESPN’s “Mason & Ireland,” James was asked about the Lakers’ four-day trip to Dončić’s home country. Host Steve Mason joked that the Lakers star is so popular in Slovenia that he could run for president.
“Oh yeah,” James said. “I was saying we was with him, you know, he was hooking us up and getting us, you know, the right places in Slovenia to see the most out of the country.”
The Lakers traveled overseas for a combination of basketball workouts and team-building activities. Dončić introduced his teammates to the country where his basketball journey began and helped organize an experience that went beyond a traditional offseason workout.
Luka Dončić Embraces Leadership Role
Dončić’s decision to host the minicamp carried additional significance after the Lakers underwent substantial roster turnover.
The franchise is beginning its first season without LeBron James since 2017-18, leaving Dončić as its unquestioned centerpiece. Organizing the trip gave him an early opportunity to establish the culture he wants around the team.
James’ comments also reinforced how much access Dončić provided to his teammates. Rather than simply bringing the Lakers together for practices, Dončić showed them the country, arranged activities and used his connections to make the experience memorable.
Kevon Looney recently praised that effort, explaining that he had never participated in anything similar during his decade with the Golden State Warriors. The veteran center said the gesture demonstrated Dončić’s character and desire to win.
The Lakers will eventually be judged by their performance on the court, but Dončić is already showing that leadership can take different forms.
Important Experience for New-Look Lakers
The timing of the minicamp could not have been better for a roster featuring numerous new players.
Walker Kessler, Quentin Grimes, Collin Sexton, Sandro Mamukelashvili and Looney are among the additions Los Angeles must integrate. Developing familiarity before training camp should give head coach JJ Redick a stronger foundation when practices officially begin.
James could also benefit from the relationships built during the trip. He enters his third season with an opportunity to establish an identity independent of his father and compete for a more consistent role.
With Dončić and Austin Reaves expected to control much of the offense, James has focused on becoming more effective away from the ball. Defense, catch-and-shoot production and sound decision-making represent his clearest path to playing time.
The Slovenia trip will not guarantee success, but it gave the Lakers valuable time together away from the pressure surrounding the franchise.
James’ positive reflection shows that Dončić accomplished exactly what he intended: bringing his new team closer together before the real work begins.
